The Chairman, Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Oil and Gas, Hon Daniel Yingi has commended the peace building process of the federal government in the Niger Delta, saying that stability in the region is not negotiable.
Hon Yingi who represents Burutu One Constituency in the state legislature, said the visits to the region by Vice President Yemi Osibanjo was necessary in addressing misgivings among critical stakeholders and praised the efforts so far made by the Minister of State, Petroleum, Dr Ibe Kachikwu in galvanizing useful discussions between the federal government and the people.
The Lawmaker stated that stability in the Niger Delta would guarantee speedy development of the region, stressing that every stakeholder should for the sake of moving forward keep it part of promise made and the agreement reached in the dialogue table.
Hon Yingi reminded the federal government that the only reason for the unending agitation by the people of Niger Delta was the criminal neglect in the development of the region which environment has been mesmerized by oil exploration and exploitation activities.
According to the lawmaker, "over the years oil remains the main stay of the nation's economy but the area that lay the goose has nothing to show for it" advising the federal government to act the talks by taking steps to meeting the yearnings and aspirations of the people of Niger Delta region.
He said the region is now regarded as being under siege by the heavy military presence in the area, emphasizing that "what is required is sincere approach by the federal government for practical development in terms of good infrastructures, gainful employment and empowerment as well as resolve the high level of environmental degradation suffered by the people.
Hon Yingi pointed out that inadequate funding has continued to hampered activities in the Niger Delta Ministry and the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC and called for adequate and timely release of funds meant for the two bodies as stipulated by the law establishing them.
He appealed for peace in the region at all times, urging the people of the Niger Delta to remain calm and support the peace building efforts of the federal government.
0 comments: